host your next event with us
Private event venue in Christchurch - Italian restaurant, bar & full venue hire for corporate functions, birthdays & group dining.
Christchurch venue hire for events, dining, and celebrations
Bar Franco offers a versatile venue for private events in Christchurch, combining Italian dining, cocktails, and flexible spaces across two distinct levels.
Downstairs, our bar is designed for lively gatherings. Cocktails, music, and a social atmosphere that suits birthdays, corporate drinks, and cocktail-style events.
Upstairs, the restaurant offers a more intimate setting for shared dining, group celebrations, and private functions, with seasonal Italian dishes and a relaxed, welcoming feel.
Whether you're planning a casual gathering or a larger event, our space adapts to your style — with great food, flowing drinks, and a setting that makes hosting feel easy.
Our spaces
Bar level
A lively, social space built around cocktails, music, and standing events. Ideal for celebrations, corporate drinks, and cocktail-style functions.
Capacity: up to 120 standing
Restaurant level
Upstairs, the restaurant offers a more intimate setting for group dining and private functions, with shared Italian dishes and a relaxed atmosphere.
Capacity: up to 120 seated
Event types
From relaxed gatherings to larger celebrations, our spaces are suited to a range of events in Christchurch.
Corporate events
Team dinners, client hosting, and end-of-year functions in a setting that feels social, not formal.
Weddings and engagements
Engagement parties, pre-wedding celebrations, and intimate wedding receptions with food and drinks designed for sharing.
Cocktail functions
Lively, standing events built around drinks, music, and a great atmosphere.
Private dining
Group dinners and seated celebrations in our upstairs restaurant space.
A flexible venue in Christchurch
Bar Franco offers a central Christchurch venue for private events, functions, and celebrations of all kinds. From cocktail-style gatherings to seated dinners, our two-level space adapts to your guest list and the kind of atmosphere you want to create.
Whether you’re planning a corporate function, a private event, or looking for a venue hire in Christchurch, the space is designed to feel social, relaxed, and easy to host in.
Real celebrations, real words
Events Worth Remembering - Here’s Proof
"Thank you so so much!! It was honestly the perfect set up for us and everyone loved the attention to detail with our name on the menu too, that was such a nice touch thank you.
A massive thank you to you & your team for hosting us so seamlessly - it was such a relaxing evening. We hope to be back!"
Elise H
"We had the most amazing time! Everything was absolutely perfect. Couldn't have been better. Thank you so much for all of your help and, again, for a perfect night!
Everyone is saying it was the best venue we have ever held a Xmas party at."
Annie L
"Thank you so much for hosting us! Everything ran so smoothly thanks to you, and all of the staff were extremely attentive and friendly.
Food and drinks were all great, I will definitely be coming back and recommending you for events!"
Kaylin O
Event enquiry form
Planning an event in Christchurch?
Whether it’s a private dinner, a corporate function, or full venue hire, our team makes hosting simple.
Tell us what you have in mind and we’ll help bring it together.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I hire the bar or restaurant separately?
Yes, both levels can be hired individually depending on your event. You can book the bar for cocktail-style functions, the restaurant for seated dining, or combine both for larger events.
What’s the guest capacity?
The bar level can host up to 120 guests standing, while the restaurant seats approximately 120 guests. Both levels can be used together for larger events.
Do you provide food and drinks?
Absolutely! We offer customisable drinks menus and Italian-inspired canapés designed to suit your style and event.
What are the opening hours for private hires?
Normally, the bar closes at 10 pm. For private bookings, we can extend until midnight so your celebration can continue in style.